Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
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Verbascum thapsus (Great Mullein) is native to Europe, northern Africa and Asia, and introduced in the Americas and Australia. It is widely used for herbal remedies as it has emollient (hydrating) and astringent (anti-inflammatory) properties. It is especially recommended for coughs and pulmonary related problems, but also used in topical applications against a variety of skin ailments. In the United States it was imported very early in the 18th century and cultivated for its medicinal properties. Mullein has been used since ancient times as a remedy for skin, throat and breathing ailments. Dioscorides, the pioneering Greek physician, botanist, and pharmacologist, first recommended the plant 2000 years ago against pulmonary diseases, and this has remained one of its primary uses, especially against cough. Mullein leaf was made into decoctions (tea) to treat sore throat, dry cough, and bronchitis. Leaves were also smoked against pulmonary ailments, a tradition that in America was rapidly transmitted to Native American peoples. The combination of expectorant saponins and emollient mucilage contained in Mullein are said to make the plant particularly effective for cough. Both the leaves and flowers contain mucilage, which is soothing to irritated membranes, and saponins, which make coughs more productive. Research has shown that the herb has strong anti-inflammatory activity. Some people find the plant’s hairs irritating to skin and mucous membranes. All preparations meant to be drunk MUST be finely filtered through fine-weave cloth or a coffee filter to eliminate the irritating hairs. It’s a good idea to see how you react to a small amount of mullein before consuming it or applying topically. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. |
